Aussies lose Olympics course design bid

March 13th, 2012 / Paul Prendergast

The bids by Australians Greg Norman and the partnership of Peter Thomson and Karrie Webb to design the golf course for the Rio 2016 Olympics have proved unsuccessful, as the successful bid was announced.

Hanse Golf Course Design was selected from eight finalists (including Jack Nicklaus and Gary Player) as the candidate that most aptly met the selection criteria issued by Rio 2016.

Greg Norman

The proposal was cited for its design characteristics, including accentuation of the natural dune formations and retention of the natural contours of the land.

The design also contains a strong legacy component, with the prioritising of a golf academy as an essential tool for the development of golf in Brazil.

Gilbert S. Hanse, 48, the founder and President of the successful company, boasts a portfolio of internationally renowned golf courses recognised by elite and amateur golfers alike.

Hanse Golf Course Design has teamed up with LPGA and World Golf Hall of Fame member, Amy Alcott, for the project.

Alcott amassed 29 professional victories on the LPGA Tour including five major championship victories. Hanse himself has committed to relocating to Rio while the golf course is under construction.

Peter Dawson, President of the International Golf Federation, said, “The IGF would like to thank all of the architects who worked so hard on their bids and whose presentations demonstrated great vision.”

“The selection process adopted by Rio 2016 was extremely thorough and reflected the importance of the project.”

“I am delighted Hanse Golf Course Design has been appointed to design the Olympic golf course which promises to provide an outstanding venue for the Games and a tremendous legacy for our sport in Brazil.”